In Which I Join a Herd

I got to have company for my walk today! My sister arranged for a friend of hers to join us on a hike around Yates Mill Pond. I haven't gotten to see the area before, so it was nice to explore somewhere new. I'll admit I missed the thinking time usually afforded by walking alone. My sister shared with me some time ago that she prefers walking alone, and I couldn't understand it then. I understand it now. Being alone with your thoughts in such an expanded space has a way of minimizing problems and elevating your thoughts. It's not the same with others; their presence demands your attention.

Still, it was nice to talk with someone new. I sometimes worry that my hermit lifestyle will diminish my capacity for empathy. How can I maintain empathy or the ability to entertain conflicting opinions if I can just avoid anyone who makes me uncomfortable or challenges my worldview? I feel like this is part of the reason why society struggles so much right now with civil discourse. Don't agree with someone's Facebook post? You can just unfollow them. Get a recommended video on Youtube that supports an opposing political viewpoint? Just request to see less of it. Gradually, we reach a point where we are surrounded by nothing but parroting of our own opinions and lifestyles. We become like Narcissus of Greek legend, enthralled by the reflection of our own self. Annoying as it may be, it's important and invigorating to talk with others, especially those we don't agree with.

I believe I've lost another three pounds or so this week. It's hard to tell, as my weight fluctuates by several pounds throughout the day, but I feel pretty confident saying that. I haven't made as much progress this week when it comes to losing weight or increasing my lifting reps, but that's to be expected the second week. Things always go so fast at the start, and then they slow down. I've been through this before; if you keep at it, the weight loss and lifting gains eventually speed back up a bit. It's discouraging for now, but it's comforting to know that it will get better with time.